Testimonial: Amy Halliday

Posted on July 23, 2025July 23, 2025 by admin

I have worked with Andy on two separate mortgages and really appreciate his knowledge and guidance. He takes the time to understand your financial goals and presents the best options clearly. The process was smooth and stress-free. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Andy to anyone in need of a mortgage broker. Amy Halliday Mississauga, Ontario

The Value of Community

Posted on July 17, 2025July 17, 2025 by Andy MacDonald

I’m not one who thrives in large gatherings but Friday night I was glad I made the effort to show up! Every summer I head to rural Cape Breton where I have a spot on the water, not far from my Mom’s family. She was one of seven kids so there are a lot of friends and family in the area; especially in the summer months when everyone comes home. On this night I was headed to the local hall for a fundraiser to support my cousin’s cousin who had been off work for several months due to he...

The Domino Effect

Posted on July 2, 2025July 2, 2025 by Andy MacDonald

I was recently hired to write an expert witness report for a case that perfectly illustrates the domino effects of the real estate correction that started in 2022. As you may recall, the Bank of Canada began to raise interest rates in the spring of 2022, signalling the beginning of the end to the real estate party that had been going on since the start of the Pandemic. From March to October 2022 the Bank of Canada raised interest rates by 3.50%. The days of cheap money and real estate hyster...

The Value of Human Judgement

Posted on May 22, 2025May 27, 2025 by Andy MacDonald

About seven years ago I stumbled into songwriting. It wasn’t a calculated decision; it was on a whim and a prayer. For me it was therapeutic and a new challenge. It allowed me to use a completely different part of my brain that was probably well on its way towards atrophy. I was fortunate to find Murray Foster and the Toronto Songwriting School. Murray and his co-pilot, Mary Krause, have created a truly amazing community of aspiring songwriters from all walks of life. Their Songwriter Getawa...

Work With A “Mucker”

Posted on May 15, 2025May 27, 2025 by Andy MacDonald

Andy MacDonald, The Mucker of Noon Hockey

Back in my late twenties I had the privilege of playing hockey with a Canadian icon, Mr. Paul Henderson. We played Monday, Wednesday, and Fridays at noon hour at the old barn in Oakville on Kerr Street. To my clients, I was at a “lunch meeting", but for me it was a time to get some exercise while learning from a bunch of guys that were ten to twenty years my senior. It was a diverse bunch including veterinarians, fire fighters, cops, lawyers, ex NHL’ers, realtors etc. The dressing room was a gr...

Testimonial: Payam Ezzatian

Posted on April 25, 2025May 27, 2025 by admin

I had the pleasure of working with Andy on a recent matter. He’s prompt and professional, and provides valuable insight based on decades of experience. I would not hesitate to ask for his assistance again. Payam Ezzatian Partner Brauti Thorning LLP Toronto, Ontario

I Felt Every Second of That Drill

Posted on April 22, 2025May 27, 2025 by Andy MacDonald

I was in the dentist’s chair last week for what should have been a quick fix: replace a cracked filling, in and out. But as the drill started, I realized something wasn’t right. I could feel everything. Even the air flow from the suction was causing pain. After a few painful seconds, I raised my hand and asked, “Is it true that redheads need more freezing?” My dentist paused, gave me a look, and said, “Actually… yeah, they often do.” I nodded. “Thought so. I’m bald now, but I was ...

How Self-Employed Buyers Can Qualify for a Mortgage

Posted on April 15, 2025May 27, 2025 by Andy MacDonald

If you’re self-employed and planning to buy a home in 2025, you may already know this journey can come with more hoops to jump through compared to salaried employees. But here’s the good news: qualifying for a mortgage is absolutely possible! You just need to be prepared, understand how lenders think, and work with the right mortgage professional. Why It’s Tougher for Self-Employed Borrowers Mortgage lenders love predictability. With salaried employees, it’s easy: lenders look at pay stub...

Order Taker or Problem Solver?

Posted on April 10, 2025May 27, 2025 by Andy MacDonald

Have you ever worked with someone who clearly knows the rules but can’t actually solve the problem in front of them? They can recite the process, follow the checklist, and quote the policy but when your situation doesn’t fit the mold, they’re stuck. These are what we call order takers. In the world of mortgages, the difference between an order taker and a problem solver can make or break your experience and potentially cost you time, money, or even a dea...

The Promise of a Promissory Note

Posted on March 26, 2025May 27, 2025 by Andy MacDonald

Yesterday, I had the pleasure of meeting with a new investor to explore whether private mortgage investing would be a good fit for them. As we discussed different investment options, they casually mentioned being approached by an acquaintance to invest in promissory notes with a so-called real estate guru. I wish I had a video of my reaction! My eyes probably bugged out of my head, and if I had been sipping coffee, I’m sure it would have gone flying. Instead, I immediately blurted out my opi...